Mrs. Briggs sank into a chair in utter stupefaction, while Randolph opened his eyes in astonishment.
“You are jesting!” Mrs. Briggs managed to utter.
“Not at all. Is what I say correct, Gilbert?”
“I believe it is, sir.”
It is singular how Gilbert was transformed all at once in the eyes of the worldly woman, and her son. Circumstances were changed, and they must change with them. It was awkward, but it must be done.
“I congratulate you, Gilbert,” she said, trying to smile. “You are certainly very fortunate.”
“I should say he was!” exclaimed Randolph. “I say, Gilbert, come and live with us, won’t you?”
“I should really be glad to have my husband’s ward in my family,” said Mrs. Briggs, as graciously as possible.
“Thank you,” said Gilbert; “but this has come upon me so suddenly, that I don’t know what arrangements I shall make.”
“Who left you this fortune?” asked Mrs. Briggs, curiously.